How To Spend A Layover In Paris

Obviously when you spend a layover in Paris you’re not going to see everything. The city is just way too big and way too wonderful. However, you can see a good amount of the city in a short amount of time. I’ve put this post together to help you navigate what to see if you only have a few hours.

During my last (and so far only), trip to Paris, I only had 36 hours. This may seem like the most absurdly short amount of time to travel to one of the most iconic cities in the world, it was. To make a long story short, I was surprised by Ben for my 25th birthday with the trip. As we only had one night in the city of lights, I naturally wanted to take advantage to see and do as much as I possibly could.

Similar to London, a lot of the major attractions are within walking distance of each other. I’ve put together a walking route for you to follow below. This route may be a lot of walking for some, in total it’s about 9km. It’s no secret I walk everywhere and anywhere. Walking 20km in a day when I’m exploring a new city is not unheard of. I can’t say Ben always loves it though. However, in terms of routes I think this is one of the most reasonable.

It’s important that you come prepared if you have a layover in Paris and are only travelling for a short period of time. First and foremost, make sure you do your research on where you will be staying for the night (if you have that much time). Nobody needs to relive the nightmare I had with Airbnb in Paris. Packing light is also important. I can’t tell you how annoying it is to have to lug around giant pieces of luggage (this is where I point the fingers at my lovely little sister). Lastly, you need proper walking shoes. Did you just roll your eyes? I’m serious! Having proper footwear can make the difference between walking 10km no problem, or having your feet ripped to shreds. Trust me, I’ve been there.

With that being said, here is the trip I would suggest for a layover or quick stop in Paris:

Notre-Dame Cathedral:

This would be a good spot to start your day. Before you walk in and get in line, take a stroll around the building. The views are really quite something and make for great photographs.

The lines, from what I’ve read, can get really long so the earlier you start the better. Don’t worry about being bored, standing in line alone provides a beautiful view of the cathedral. The line will move, slowly but surely through the giant doors and in through the breathtaking cathedral. You must remember to be silent when walking inside (although there are signs everywhere that will remind you).

Whether you’re a Catholic or not you should make this stop a must-see. As many churches as I’ve been in during my travels, Notre-Dame is one of my favourite. There’s just something about the architecture and the history of this infamous building that give it a special air. Don’t take my word for it, go and see it yourself!

Louvre Museum:

Next stop is the home of the Mona Lisa. I’ll admit that I never actually went inside the Louvre during my visit. I’ll be honest, I’m very picky about the museums I go into and the Louvre seemed as if it would be a bit too crazy for me. If I thought the lines for Notre-Dame could be bad, that was nothing compared to the Louvre.

From everything I’ve read on other travel blogs, you’re not missing too much by choosing not to go inside. Regardless of whether you decide to sit this excursion out or make the venture down below, just seeing the building is something. There are so many amazing spots for photos. Take a couple moments and sit on one of the many benches just to admire the view. This was one of my favourite things I did during my visit.

Orsay Museum:

Okay, so you know how I said earlier I’m very particular about the museums I go into? This one was worth it. I had heard nothing but great things about this museum so I thought I would give it a go. EU passport holders under the age of 26 get access to the museum (and other public museums and monuments) for free but for all others it’s roughy 9 Euros.

In total it took us just over an hour to make our way through the building. The amount of statues, paintings, furniture and photographs are incredible. There are some pieces that date back as far as 1848 and the majority of the pieces are French.

Even the most novice of art admirers will recognize the works of Van Gogh, Monet and Renoir. As one of the largest museums in Europe I wouldn’t suggest you miss this.

Place de la Concorde:

As you make your way through the city streets, Place de la Concorde will be a natural pass. This large city square is the largest in Paris. One thing I noticed about Paris is that the streets seem very open and spacious. This large square by nature feels even larger, it takes up roughly 21 acres.

In the middle of the square you’ll find an out of place looking structure. That’s the Obelisk. Yup, I had no idea what that was either. The Obelisk was actually one of two statues created by the Egyptians intended for the French people in the mid 1800s. They managed to get one over to France but with the technology at the time they had to keep one in Egypt.

Champs-Eylsées:

As you continue along your path you’ll find yourself on the Champs-Elysées. Arguably one of the most famous and expensive streets in the world. If you’re a shopper this is your mecca. Lined on either side of the 2km street you’ll find almost every major luxury retail brand. Honestly I felt poor just walking along.

Regardless of whether you choose to shop or not, you should walk along the Champs-ElysésS. It’s a beautiful strip to leisurely walk through. Just remember not to eat a meal here, it’ll likely be far more expensive than somewhere a little ways away from the street.

Arc de Triomphe:

You didn’t think you could visit Paris without taking a picture of the Arc de Triomphe did you? This giant monument was created as a way to honour French nationals who fought and died in the French Revolutionary wars and the Napoleonic Wars. The monument basically sits right flat in the middle of the city as the streets.

What surprised me most about the monument was that it was a giant roundabout. I’m not sure why I didn’t know this before. Honestly the cars that whip around go so fast. Please, please, please do not try and cross the street. There are areas where you can go beneath the road to get there. Don’t be an idiot and try to dodge traffic.

Eiffel Tower

Ah, the pièce de résistance. Paris wouldn’t be Paris without the Eiffel Tower and it’s just as amazing in person as you think it’s going to be. What I loved most about Paris was sitting on the Champs de Mars and watching the people going by. I hope you’re lucky enough to have as nice of a day as I had during my trip.

You can’t miss seeing the tower at night either. Take a walk down to Jardin Du Luxembourg gardens to admire them in the daylight and make a quick trip back in the dark to the Eiffel Tower. The way that it lights up and flashes, it’s beautiful. Grab a bottle of wine and a blanket and enjoy the night.

Jardin du Luxembourg:

This famous garden is a must see, or at least a must walk through. I was lucky to have such a beautiful day during my visit so the garden was lively and full of activity. The garden covers 23 hectres so it’s pretty big. The area is filled with flower beds, tree-lined promenades and the Medici Fountain.

It seemed as if everywhere I turned there was a spot for a perfect picture. What was once a palace of the royal family, the palace now makes a beautiful backdrop, although I’m not quite sure what purpose it serves these days. Either way you can’t miss at least a quick walk through Jardin du Luxembourg.

*Bonus: Sacre Coeur

If you have time you can take the metro up to Sacre Coeur in the Montmarte area. I really wish I had the chance to explore this area just a little bit more, I know I would have loved it. Plus it was home to some of the most famous writers in history.

The iconic domed church is not easily missed if you’re anywhere nearby. We didn’t have time to walk up or go inside by we grabbed a quick bite at a cafe nearby and still enjoyed the views very much. Just be careful of all the pigeons, I’m not sure why there are so many but holy – they were super aggressive too!

If you have a layover in Paris what would you visit?

Additional Notes

ACCOMMODATION

• Airbnb if you have enough time during your layover in Paris, Airbnb is a good bet for finding a place to stay near the city centre for a good price. For tips about booking Airbnb check out my post here.
• Booking.com is another great resource if you’re looking to book a hotel instead of an apartment. I typicaly use Booking.com as it has the cheapest hotel prices.

PARIS TRAVEL BOOKS

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